Austin Groeneveld, St. Paul's sophomore forward, who said on-field communication is the top-ranked Wolves' biggest challenge, was benched along with junior Davis Neitzschman last week.

While the rest of the team took on Slidell, the two boys were instructed to discuss their personal lives.

"It transfers to the field," Groeneveld said. "[Communication's] been a core principle this year and last year."

Whether from a newfound mutual respect or energy saved warming the bench, Groeneveld contributed a goal and Neitzschman an assist in Tuesday night's 3-0 dismantling of District 6-5A rival Mandeville.

The two teams had met twice before this season. But the Wolves finished ahead both times did nothing to ease Coach Sean Moser's pre-game tensions.

"I was worried about the conditions of the field, the tightness [of a smaller pitch] and the athleticism of their team," Moser said.

Mandeville, ranked No. 7 in Division I, put up a fight against the top-ranked Wolves, keeping the scored tied at 0-0 for most of the opening period.

When Grant Hebert took a corner kick midway through the first half, the Skippers' keeper came far enough out of the box to leave the goal unprotected. Cameron Robinson made the goal to put St. Paul's ahead, 1-0, heading into halftime.

When both teams reentered the pitch after halftime, it was clear that the Wolves had their mojo back. With 27 minutes remaining, Neitzschman crossed to senior Christian Caragliano to bring the score to 2-0.

Nearing the end of the game, Groeneveld made a long run up the field and took his shot about 25 yards from the goal. The ball arched and dropped in just out of the keeper's reach. With just two minutes remaining, Groeneveld just missed a repeat but was able to walk away with a victory.

"I'm not disappointed," said Mandeville head coach Ari Kyriakydis, whose Skippers were down three starters. "I'm looking forward to playing them again in the state championships."

Friday's matchup against Northshore (9-4-3) will determine whether or not the Wolves take the District 6-5A title. The Skippers are a strong lock for district runner-up. They'll try to solidify their position against Hammond (8-7-2) on Friday.